The Danish Brændende Kærlighed recipe was the focus of a cooking class I attended during my visit to Copenhagen, Denmark. Copenhagen is a city known for its blend of history and modernity, with landmarks like the Little Mermaid statue and Amalienborg Palace showcasing its royal heritage.

The Nyhavn harbour area, lined with colourful buildings, is a popular destination, while the Tivoli Gardens provide an iconic mix of entertainment and dining. The city’s efficient public transport and bike-friendly streets make it easy to explore attractions like the National Museum and Christiansborg Palace.

The cooking class took place in a small culinary studio and introduced me to the Danish Brændende Kærlighed recipe, which translates to “Burning Love.” This traditional dish combines mashed potatoes with crispy bacon and sautéed onions. The instructor explained its origins as a hearty, comforting meal enjoyed by locals. Preparing the dish involved boiling potatoes until soft, mashing them with milk and butter, and then topping the smooth mash with crispy bacon and caramelised onions.

The Danish Brændende Kærlighed recipe was straightforward to make, with its emphasis on simple ingredients and careful preparation. The mashed potatoes were creamy and light, while the bacon added a savoury crunch. The onions provided a sweet, caramelised flavour that balanced the richness of the other components. The dish was served warm, often accompanied by fresh parsley for garnish.

Tasting the Danish Brændende Kærlighed recipe, I noticed how the different textures complemented each other. The creamy potatoes formed a soft base for the crispy bacon, while the onions added a slightly sweet contrast. The dish’s popularity in Denmark is due to its satisfying nature and the use of readily available ingredients. It is often prepared in homes across the country and served as a traditional family meal.

Outside the cooking class, Copenhagen offered numerous activities. I visited the Designmuseum Denmark to explore the country’s design heritage and walked through the vibrant Nørrebro district to see its eclectic shops and cafes. The city’s green spaces, like the King’s Garden at Rosenborg Castle, provided a peaceful retreat.

Learning the Danish Brændende Kærlighed recipe added depth to my experience in Copenhagen, connecting me to the local food culture and traditions. The simplicity and flavour of the dish reflect the city’s balance of tradition and practicality, making it a memorable part of my trip.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

Misc.

1 3/4 lbs cauliflower
1 3/4 lbs celeriac
3 tbsp organic butter
1 bunch fresh parsley
6 tarragon sprigs
1 tsp bouillon, vegetable
2 tsp salt
Fresh ground pepper (to taste)

Caramelized & roasted roots

4 carrots
2 beets
1.5 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp fennel seeds
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp Fresh ground pepper (to taste)

Topping

8 oz bacon
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

To begin, give the cauliflower a good wash, then chop it into big pieces and throw it into a big pot. Peel the celeriac and chop it into tiny pieces before adding it to the saucepan with the cauliflower. Pour in the bouillon and then cover with water. After the water boils, reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are very soft.

After you remove the veggies from the pot, be sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the cooking water. Mash the potatoes or use a big whisker (the latter is much cooler) to combine the potatoes with the salt and butter. Mash until the mixture is chunky. Blend in the herbs, pepper, and seasoning until desired.
Cook the bacon until it’s crispy in a large skillet over high heat. Transfer to a dish lined with paper towels to drain. Set aside about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet and transfer the rest to a small bowl. Chop the fennel seeds and add them to the carrots with half of the syrup and a pinch of pepper and salt. Carrots should be sautéed for 5 to 10 minutes, or until they begin to turn a slight golden hue, without letting them become soft.
Take the pot off the heat. To sauté beets in the same way as carrots, but for an additional 5 minutes, follow the same procedure using a small amount of bacon fat.

After you’ve finished cooking the bacon, carrots, and mash, pile over the beets and carrots, top with the bacon, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

10 Most Popular Spices Used in Danish Cooking

Danish cooking relies on subtle seasoning to enhance the natural flavours of fresh, local ingredients. While not as spice-heavy as other cuisines, Danish recipes still make strategic use of key spices to bring warmth, depth, and a unique character to their dishes. Below are the ten most popular spices that play a significant role in Danish cooking.

1. Dill Dill is perhaps the most iconic herb used in Danish cuisine. Its delicate, grassy flavour is a perfect match for seafood, particularly pickled herring and salmon. Dill also enhances the flavour of potato dishes, soups, and sauces. Fresh dill is preferred, but dried dill is often used for longer-lasting seasoning.

2. Caraway Seeds
Caraway seeds are essential in traditional rye bread (rugbrød) and other baked goods. Their earthy, anise-like flavour adds complexity to dishes like cabbage stews and pickled vegetables. Caraway is also a key flavour in Danish schnapps (akvavit), tying it closely to Danish culture.

3. Allspice Allspice is commonly used in Danish meatballs (frikadeller) and sausage recipes, adding a warm, peppery note. It’s also a popular addition to stews and gravies, complementing the hearty, savoury dishes that define Danish comfort food.

4. Nutmeg Nutmeg brings a warm, slightly sweet flavour to both sweet and savoury dishes. It’s often added to white sauces, potato dishes, and baked goods. In desserts like risalamande (rice pudding), nutmeg enhances the creamy, comforting profile.

5. Cinnamon Cinnamon is widely used in Danish baking, lending its warm spice to pastries such as cinnamon rolls (kanelsnegle). It’s also found in festive recipes like Christmas cookies (brunkager), showcasing its importance in traditional sweets.

6. Bay Leaves Bay leaves are a common seasoning in Danish soups, stews, and marinades. Their mild, herbal flavour enhances the depth of slow-cooked dishes such as beef stews and pickled meats. Bay leaves are often removed before serving, as their essence infuses the dish during cooking.

7. Cloves Cloves are used sparingly in Danish cooking but are crucial in certain traditional recipes. They provide a sweet, spicy aroma to holiday dishes like roast pork (flæskesteg) and mulled wine (gløgg). Ground cloves may also appear in gingerbread cookies and spiced cakes.

8. Mustard Seeds Mustard seeds are integral to Danish pickling recipes, especially for cucumbers and onions. They offer a tangy, pungent flavour that enhances the pickling brine, balancing the acidity and sweetness of the dish.

9. Cardamom Cardamom is a favourite in Danish baking, particularly in pastries and festive bread. Its floral, citrusy notes are essential in recipes like julekage (Christmas bread) and spice cakes. Cardamom pods are also sometimes used to flavour stews.

10. Pepper Black and white pepper are staples in Danish kitchens, used to season a wide variety of dishes. White pepper, in particular, is preferred for creamy sauces, soups, and potato dishes, providing a mild, pungent heat without altering the dish’s appearance.

Danish cuisine celebrates the natural flavours of its ingredients, with spices used judiciously to enhance rather than overpower dishes. These ten spices, from the brightness of dill to the warmth of cinnamon and cloves, reflect the understated yet flavourful character of Danish cooking. Whether in a hearty stew or a delicate pastry, each spice contributes to the depth and balance that define Denmark’s food traditions.

How to Find Local Food Favorites in Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital, is a hub for culinary exploration, blending traditional Nordic dishes with modern food trends. For visitors looking to experience the best local food spots, the key lies in seeking out places that prioritise fresh, seasonal ingredients and authentic Danish flavours. While the city offers numerous high-end restaurants, including several Michelin-starred establishments, some of the most memorable dining experiences can be found at more casual and locally loved spots.

One of the best ways to uncover Copenhagen’s food gems is by exploring the city’s bustling food markets. Torvehallerne, an indoor food market located in the heart of Copenhagen, is a treasure trove of Danish delicacies. Here, you’ll find vendors selling everything from traditional smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) to freshly baked pastries like kanelsnegle. For a truly local experience, try sampling fresh fish or locally crafted cheeses. These markets also provide the opportunity to interact with the vendors, who often have great recommendations for nearby hidden gems.

Walking through the city’s diverse neighbourhoods is another effective way to find authentic food experiences. Nørrebro, known for its multicultural flair, offers a range of eateries serving both traditional Danish fare and creative fusion cuisine. Meanwhile, the Christianshavn neighbourhood boasts charming canalside cafes where you can enjoy classic dishes like frikadeller (Danish meatballs) or flæskesteg (roast pork with crackling).

If you prefer guided insights, consider joining a local food tour. Many tours in Copenhagen focus on showcasing the city’s culinary highlights, often including visits to lesser-known spots that tourists might overlook. These tours are an excellent way to sample a variety of Danish foods while learning about their history and significance.

Social media and review platforms like Instagram and TripAdvisor can also point you toward popular local favourites. Look for posts and reviews from locals rather than tourists to get authentic recommendations. Many Copenhagen residents share their dining experiences online, making it easier to discover hidden treasures off the beaten path.

Don’t overlook Copenhagen’s bakeries and coffee shops, which are an integral part of Danish food culture. Iconic pastries like wienerbrød (Danish pastries) are best enjoyed fresh from a neighbourhood bakery. Pairing a pastry with a cup of strong Danish coffee at a cosy cafe offers a quintessentially Danish experience.

Last, be open to asking locals for advice. Danes are known for their friendliness and will often be happy to share their favourite dining spots. Whether it’s a bartender at a craft beer bar or the cashier at a local market, their recommendations can lead you to some of the most authentic meals in Copenhagen.

By combining market exploration, neighbourhood walks, guided tours, and local advice, you can immerse yourself in Copenhagen’s vibrant food scene. These efforts not only ensure you’ll find the best local food spots but also deepen your understanding and appreciation of Danish cuisine.

FAQ For the Brændende Kærlighed Recipe

Q: What is the Brændende Kærlighed recipe?

The Brændende Kærlighed recipe, also known as “Burning Love,” is a traditional Danish dish made with mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and caramelised onions. It is a hearty and simple meal, often enjoyed as a comfort food in Denmark.

Q: What ingredients are required for the Brændende Kærlighed recipe?

The Brændende Kærlighed recipe requires basic ingredients such as potatoes, butter, milk, bacon, onions, and salt. Some variations may include seasonings or herbs like pepper and parsley, but the core ingredients remain simple and traditional.

Q: How do you prepare the Brændende Kærlighed recipe?

To prepare the Brændende Kærlighed recipe, start by boiling the potatoes until soft and mashing them with butter and milk. In a separate pan, fry the bacon until crispy and caramelise the onions in the bacon fat. Once ready, combine the mashed potatoes with the bacon and onions, and serve warm.

Q: Is the Brændende Kærlighed recipe popular in Denmark?

Yes, the Brændende Kærlighed recipe is a popular dish in Denmark, particularly as a comfort food. It is a traditional meal often served in Danish homes and appreciated for its rich, savoury flavour and satisfying texture.

Q: Can the Brændende Kærlighed recipe be adapted for dietary preferences?

The Brændende Kærlighed recipe can be adapted by using vegetarian or vegan bacon substitutes and dairy-free alternatives for the mashed potatoes. The dish can also be made gluten-free by ensuring no wheat-based products are included in the preparation.